"Film Family Matters" - Mike Westgate
In every sense, film is family. We share long days, quiet triumphs, endless laughter, and the kind of pressure that forges lifelong bonds. But as projects end and years roll on, some of our family slip quietly out of sight - through illness, injury, or simply time.
That’s why we’re introducing our Film Family Matters - a new section of The Wrap dedicated to celebrating the people who have shaped our industry, especially those now facing life’s tougher chapters.
The Screen Guild is supporting Nigel to spotlight members of our screen community whenever we can - a veteran, mentor, or crew member who could use a bit of aroha and recognition. We’ll also invite you to share your memories, stories, or photos - the kind of small gestures that can lift spirits and remind someone that they’re still part of something bigger.
If you know someone who deserves to be acknowledged - whether they’re quietly struggling or simply long overdue for a thank-you - we’d love to hear from you.
Read A Letter from Nigel Burton which provides his heartfelt thoughts on why this is an important initiative and why we need to be better at supporting our Film Family.
Featured Family Member:
Our first feature shines a light on MIKE WESTGATE – Sound.
We invite you to share your memories, moments, stories and images that capture the spirit of working alongside Mike.
Mike Westgate | Sound Department
Many, many of us have worked alongside Mike, an industry veteran whose credits stretch back to the 1970s.
Mike helped shape the visual stories of New Zealand film long before our industry had the recognition it does today - his work, mentorship, and wonderfully cheeky spirit left marks on countless sets and careers.
In recent years, life has dealt him a cruel hand.
A back injury left him bedridden just before COVID hit. Isolation followed, then Parkinson’s. He’s now confined to his bed, held together by morphine, staring at the ceiling and feeling forgotten by the industry that once defined his world.
Mike often says he wishes he’d had the chance to retire - to say goodbye to the people and the work that gave his life meaning. But he didn’t get that moment. And that’s something we can change.
So here’s what we’re asking:
If you ever worked with Mike, learned from him, or simply remember his humour or skill - please take a moment to share a memory. A story. A message.
Nigel and The Screen Guild, with the help of Peter Kraan, are collecting these reflections to be read to Mike and remind him how much he means to our film whānau.
Please send your stories, messages, or photos to: Film Family Matters- MIKE WESTGATE
If you know another person you feel would benefit from hearing from their film family, please email info@screenguild.co.nz to let us know.
